Hans Holbein the Younger
In DailyArt Magazine this is Queens week! On this occasion, we show you one of the most [in]famous kings of all time—Henry VIII. This full-length portrait is derived from the famous portrait painted by Hans Holbein for the Whitehall Mural. He is standing, facing the viewer, and holding his gloves in his right hand and the chain from which his dagger hangs in his left. He is wearing a richly embroidered and jeweled doublet with a fur-lined cloak , a feathered hat, and the Garter.
Henry VIII is best known for his six marriages, and (in particular) his efforts to have his first marriage (to Catherine of Aragon) annulled. His disagreement with Pope Clement VII on the question of such an annulment led Henry to initiate the English Reformation, separating the Church of England from papal authority. He appointed himself Supreme Head of the Church of England and dissolved convents and monasteries, for which he was excommunicated. Henry is also known as "the father of the Royal Navy," as he invested heavily in the navy, increasing its size from a few to more than 50 ships, and established the Navy Board.
P.S. If you would like to know about the dramatic fate of King Henry's wives, read our article on wronged royal wives here. Also, don't forget to sign up for DailyArt Magazine's newsletter! <3